EP0517753A1

EP0517753A1 - Apparatus and method for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine.

Info

Publication number: EP0517753A1
Application number: EP91904763A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Roger A Reinhard
Original assignee: Kay Chemical Co
Current assignee: Kay Chemical Co
Priority date: 1990-02-28
Filing date: 1991-02-25
Publication date: 1992-12-16
Anticipated expiration: 2011-02-25
Also published as: US5056542A; DE69116346T2; AU7332391A; EP0517753A4; EP0517753B1; WO1991012763A1; ATE132717T1; CA2034203C; CA2034203A1; DE69116346D1

Abstract

L'invention se rapporte à un appareil (40) et à un procédé de distribution de détergent pour lave-vaisselle (10), selon lequel le système (30) de diffusion de l'eau de rinçage ou une autre source d'eau sont contrôlées pour déterminer si le lave-vaisselle (10) est alimenté en eau. Lorsqu'une condition d'alimentation du lave-vaisselle (10) en eau est détectée, l'appareil détermine si l'alimentation en eau s'effectue pour un cycle de rinçage ou pour un cycle de remplissage. La quantité de détergent distribuée est régulée selon que l'alimentation en eau s'effectue pour un cycle de rinçage ou pour un cycle de remplissage. Lorsque l'appareil détermine que l'alimentation en eau s'effectue pour un cycle de rinçage, une quantité d'appoint de détergent est distribuée à la fin du cycle de rinçage. Lorsque l'appareil détermine que l'alimentation en eau s'effectue pour un cycle de remplissage, le réservoir d'eau de lavage (12) est pré-chargé avec la concentration désirée de détergent pendant le cycle de remplissage.The invention relates to an apparatus (40) and a method for dispensing a dishwashing detergent (10), in which the system (30) for dispensing rinse water or another water source is provided. checked to determine if the dishwasher (10) is supplied with water. When a dishwasher water supply condition (10) is detected, the appliance determines whether the water supply is for a rinse cycle or for a filling cycle. The quantity of detergent dispensed is regulated depending on whether the water supply is for a rinse cycle or for a filling cycle. When the appliance determines that the water supply is for a rinse cycle, an additional amount of detergent is dispensed at the end of the rinse cycle. When the appliance determines that the water supply is for a filling cycle, the wash water tank (12) is pre-charged with the desired concentration of detergent during the filling cycle.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DISPENSING DETERGENT IN A WAREWASH MACHINE

Background of the Invention

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine, and more particularly to a probeless apparatus and method for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine.

Background Art

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for supplying detergent into a commercial warewash machine. Such com¬ mercial warewash machines typically include a washtank for holding a supply of wash water, a wash water spray head for supplying the wash water to a rack of wares to be cleaned, and a rinse water spray head for rinsing the cleaned rack of wares. The wash water in the washtank should maintain a predetermined concentration of detergent to ensure that the dishes are properly cleaned.

During the wash cycle, a wash pump draws water that contains detergent from the washtank and by means of the wash water spray head supplies the wash water over the wares. Subsequent to the wash cycle which typically takes 45 seconds, a dwell period is provided between the wash cycle and an ensuing rinse cycle to permit the wash water solution to drain off the wares. Next, a rinse cycle that typically takes 12-15 seconds occurs. The fresh water rinse is supplied through the rinse water spray head. Typically, 1.25 - 2.5 gallons of fresh water are introduced during the rinse cycle. Food soils are carried down an overflow drain in the washtank by water that is displaced by the additional fresh water added during the rinse cycle. Thus, each time the rinse cycle occurs a certain amount of detergent is lost down the overflow drain. Consequently, it is necessary to replenish the detergent ea time the rinse cycle occurs to ensure that the desired concentra tion of detergent in the washtank is maintained. Also, in commercial operations it is common to completely drain the washtank two or three times in a 24 hour period. Each time the washtank is drained, it is necessary to charge the fresh water introduced into the washtank with detergent to achieve the desir concentration of detergent in the wash water. The fresh water introduced to fill the washtank after a draining operation can b supplied through the rinse water spray head or through a separat water source.

Two types of systems exist for introducing detergent into t washtank of a warewash machine. The first type is a probe syste which operates by means of a conductivity sensing probe mounted the washtank. This probe, when connected to a conductivity con¬ troller, senses the conductivity of the wash water in the wash¬ tank. When the conductivity drops below an adjustable, preset level, the conductivity controller activates a chemical feed pum to introduce additional detergent into the washtank. This type system continues to add detergent until the conductivity of the wash water in the washtank is at or above a preset level. Once the conductivity again drops below this preset level, the cycle repeats itself.

Although the probe systems are in common use in the industr there are many drawbacks associated with such systems. For instance, factors other than the detergent concentration can affect the conductivity of the wash water in the washtank, there causing erroneous readings of the detergent concentration. Such factors include water hardness, water solids concentration, soil load and temperature. Also, mineral deposits such as limescale o the sensing probe can substantially reduce the accuracy of the system. Moreover, over extended periods of time, the set point o the sensing probe tends to vary. Finally, due to the number of factors that can affect the reading of the probe, the dispensing system cannot be calibrated prior to installation on a specific warewash machine. The inability to precalibrate the instrument complicates the installation process of the dispensing system. A second known type of detergent dispensing system is referred to as a probeless system. Such systems are generally electro-mechanical in nature and typically include a variable speed peristaltic pump that is actuated by the rinse system of th warewash machine. This type of system adds detergent to the washtank of the warewash machine continuously during the entire rinse cycle.

Many problems exist with known probeless detergent dispensin systems. For example, such systems compensate only for the deter gent lost during the rinse cycle. These systems do not compensat for the draining and refilling of the washtank and are not capabl of pre-charging a newly filled washtank with the desired concen¬ tration of detergent prior to washing the first rack of wares. T compensate for the inability to pre-charge the washtank, the amount of detergent added during each rinse cycle is increased. This allows the system to compensate for its lack of pre-charge capability. However, the result is that the system provides an inadequate concentration of detergent for the first several wash cycles and an over-concentration of detergent for the remainder o the wash cycles. Also, because the detergent is introduced durin the rinse cycle when fresh water is being added to the washtank, portion of the newly introduced detergent is immediately carried by the rinse water down the overflow drain before it has an opportunity to disperse into the wash water. Thus, a certain amount of detergent is lost before it can be utilized.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to pro vide an apparatus for dispensing a make-up amount of detergent after the rinse cycle has been completed.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a detergent dispensing system that can pre-charge a washtank with a desired concentration of detergent.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that can distinguish between a rinse cycle and a fil cycle and add the correct amount of detergent based upon such a determination.

Still another object is to provide an apparatus and a method for dispensing detergent into a warewash machine that are economical and efficient, both in the cost of the apparatus and the use of detergent.

Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, of may be learned by practice of t invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and com¬ binations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

Disclosure of the Invention

To achieve the foregoing objects, and in accordance with th invention as embodied and broadly described herein, there is pro vided an apparatus for dispensing detergent in a warewash machin including a washtank for holding a supply of wash water, a rinse water spray head through which water is supplied in a rinse cycl and a fill cycle, and a flow control means for controlling the flow of water being supplied. The apparatus comprises a means, coupled with the flow control means, for determining whether the water is being supplied in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle. Means are provided for dispensing detergent to the washtank of the warewash machine. A first control means is provided for operati the dispensing means to dispense a first predetermined amount of detergent. The first control means is activated in response to determination that water is being supplied in a fill cycle. A second control means is provided for operating the dispensing means to dispense a second predetermined amount of detergent. T second control means is activated in response to a determination that water is being supplied in a rinse cycle. Preferably, the second predetermined amount of detergent is dispensed to the washtank after the rinse cycle is complete.

In another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus is provided for dispensing detergent into a warewash machine including a washtank for holding a predetermined supply of wash water introduced during a fill cycle, a rinse water spray head f spraying water over a rack of wares and into the washtank during rinse cycle, and an overflow drain for draining excess water introduced into the washtank during a rinse cycle. The apparatu comprises a means for determining whether the water is being supplied to the washtank during a fill cycle or a rinse cycle. Means are provided for dispensing detergent to the washtank of the warewash machine. A first control means, coupled with the determining means and the dispensing means, causes the dispensing means to dispense a first predetermined amount of detergent during or after a fill cycle. A second control means, coupled with the determining means and the dispensing means, causes the dispensing means to dispense a second predetermined amount of detergent after the rinse cycle to compensate for the detergent drained from the washtank during the rinse cycle. Preferably, the second predetermined amount of detergent is substantially less than the first predetermined amount of detergent.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of dispensing detergent into a warewash machine including a washtank for holding a supply of wash water and a rinse water spray head through which water is supplied in a rinse cycle and in a fill cycle. The method comprises the step of monitoring the rinse water spray system to sense water being supplied to the warewash machine. Next, the apparatus determines whether the water is being supplied in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle. Detergent is dispensed to the washtank of the warewash machine. The amount of detergent dispensed is controlled based upon a determination of whether the water is being supplied in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle.

In still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of dispensing detergent into a warewash machine including a washtank for holding a supply of wash water, a rinse water spray head through which water is supplied over a rack of wares to the washtank during at least the rinse cycle, and an overflow drain for draining excess water introduced into the washtank. The method comprises the steps of sensing the flow of water into the washtank and determining whether the water is being introduced into the washtank in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle. A supply of water sufficient to fill the washtank is introduced into the washtank during a fill cycle. Also during the fill cycle, a first supply of detergent is introduced into the washtank that is sufficient to charge the water introduced into the washtank dur the fill cycle. During the rinse cycle, a supply of water sufficient to rinse wares is introduced into the warewash machi The excess water introduced into the warewash machine is draine through the overflow drain. After each rinse cycle, a second supply of detergent that is sufficient to fully charge the wash water is introduced into the washtank. Preferably the second supply of detergent is substantially less than the first supply detergent.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and c stitute a part of the specification, illustrate a preferred emb iment of the invention and, together with the general descriptio provided above and the detailed description of the preferred embodiment provided below, serve to explain the principles of th invention.

Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating elements of the present invention and the connections between the apparatus of the prese invention and a warewash machine;

Fig. 1A is a schematic flowchart illustrating the major components of the present invention and their relationship.

Fig. 2 is a logic flowchart illustrating the operation of t apparatus of the present invention;

Fig. 3 is an electrical schematic diagram of the control ci cuit of the apparatus of the present invention;

Figs. 4-8 illustrate the cycle of events in a warewash machine on which the apparatus of the present invention is installed. More specifically:

Fig. 4 illustrates a warewash machine at rest in a filled condition;

Fig. 5 illustrates a warewash machine during a wash cycle;

Fig. 6 illustrates a warewash machine during a dwell period between a wash cycle and a rinse cycle;

Fig. 7 illustrates a warewash machine during a rinse cycle; and

Fig. 8 illustrates a warewash machine during a fill cycle. Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

Reference will now be made to the present preferred embodiment of the invention that is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The apparatus and method of the present invention can be installed on a warewash machine in which the fresh water fill operation is done through the rinse system. Alternatively, the apparatus of the present invention can be installed on a warewash machine that utilizes separate sources of water for the fill cycle and for the rinse cycle.

Figs. 4 through 8 illustrate a cycle of operation in a typical warewash machine on which the apparatus of the present invention is intended to be installed. Figure 4 illustrates a warewash machine indicated generally by the reference numeral 10 that includes a washtank 12. A wash pump 14 is disposed in washtank 12 to draw water therefrom and supply the water through wash spray head 16 over a rack of wares (not shown) that is disposed in upper cabinet 18. When warewash machine 10 is at rest as shown in Figure 4, the water level 20 is positioned just below overflow drain intake 22 that is connected by drain pipe 24 to overflow drain 26.

Fig. 5 illustrates warewash machine 10 during a wash cycle which typically takes 45 seconds. During such a wash cycle, wate is supplied through wash spray head 16 to a rack of wares positioned in upper cabinet 18. The wash water drawn from washtank 12 and supplied through wash spray head 16 results in a reduced water level 28 in washtank 12.

Fig. 6 illustrates warewash machine 10 during a dwell cycle that occurs between a wash cycle and a rinse cycle. The dwell cycle typically takes about 3 seconds. During the dwell cycle, the wash water solution drains off the wares in upper cabinet 18 into washtank 12 to return the water level 20 to substantially that shown in Figure 4. A minor amount of wash water is lost through spillage and evaporation.

Figure 7 illustrates warewash machine 10 during a rinse cycle that typically takes about 12 seconds to about 15 seconds. During the rinse cycle, approximately 1.5 to 2.5 gallons of fresh water are introduced through rinse water spray head 30 to a washed rack of wares positioned in upper cabinet 18. The purpose of the ri cycle is threefold. First, it rinses the remaining soil off th wares with fresh water. Second, in high rinse temperature machines, it sanitizes the wares with fresh water heated to at least 180° F. Third, it carries food soil down overflow drain 2 by displacing an equivalent volume of water to that supplied in the rinse cycle. In addition to food soils being carried down t overflow drain 26, water containing the detergent is also carrie down overflow drain 26.

Fig. 8 illustrates warewash machine 10 during a fill cycle. In warewash machine 10 depicted in Fig. 8, the fresh water fill occurs through rinse water spray head 30. Alternatively, a fres water fill may be provided through a separate water source (not shown). When washtank 12 is filled to water level 20, a float switch (not shown) terminates the fresh water fill operation.

A description of the dispensing apparatus and method of the present invention will now be provided with reference to the warewash machine described in connection with the figures. In accordance with the present invention, an apparatus is provided for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine that includes a washtank for holding a supply of wash water, a rinse water spray head through which water is supplied in a rinse cycle and in a fill cycle, and a flow control means for controlling the flow of water being supplied. As embodied herein and as shown in Fig. 1 a dispensing apparatus indicated generally by the reference numeral 40 dispenses detergent in warewash machine 10 that includes washtank 12 for holding a supply of wash water, rinse water spray head 30 through which water is supplied in a rinse cycle and a fill cycle, and solenoid valve 100 for controlling water flow into the machine. The control circuitry of warewash machine 10 provides a signal to open solenoid valve 100.

The dispensing apparatus includes a container 36 for holdin a supply of liquid detergent and a peristaltic pump 48 for pumpi detergent into the washtank. Tubing 38 connects the container 3 with the pump 48, and tubing 39 connects the pump to the washtan The apparatus also includes a control system for operating the pump. The control system includes electronic control elements enclosed in rear panel 102, speed control 70 for the pump motor, and wiring, such as wiring 106 interconnecting the various electric sensing and control elements.

As shown generally in Fig. 1A, the warewash machine includes a means 105 for controlling the flow of water being supplied. Means 105 includes solenoid valve 100 and the signal provided by the control circuitry of warewash machine 10. A determining mean 110 determines whether water is being supplied in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle. Also included in the dispensing apparatus is a first control means 112 for operating the pump 48 to dispense a first predetermined amount of detergent into the washtank 12 and second control means 114 for operating the pump 48 to dispense a second predetermined amount of detergent into the washtank 12. The second control means preferably includes a speed control 70 for changing the speed of the motor for pump 48. The specific electrical elements of the preferred embodiment of the present invention are illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3. A more detailed explanation of these elements and their operation is set forth below.

In the preferred embodiment, the operating electrical power and certain control signals for dispensing apparatus 40 are provided by warewash machine 10. Preferably, dispensing apparatu 40 operates by 24 volt AC power. This power source is actuated b the master power switch (not shown) of warewash machine 10. If 2 volts AC is not available, a step down transformer 42 (shown in Fig. 1) converts the input voltage to 24 volts AC.

Preferably, the supply to rinse water, spray head 30 includes a solenoid valve 100 that controls the flow of water. A control signal is provided by the warewash machine to open solenoid valve 100. The solenoid valve preferably is positioned at a location between the supply pipe to the rinse water spray head and the spray head, or at the spray head. In the embodiment shown, the solenoid valve 100 is positioned at an inlet pipe immediately ahead of the spray head.30.

In accordance with the present invention, means are provided for determining whether the water is being supplied in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle. The determining means is activated in response to the control signal provided to solenoid valve 100 to supply water through the rinse water spray head. As embodied herein, the determining means includes a relay switch 44 (also designated by "K3" in Fig. 3) that is activated by the control signal provided to the valve 100 at rinse water spray head 30. With reference to Figs. 2 and 3, relay switch 44 generates a signal through lines 47 and 49, respectively, when activated by the control signal. It is contemplated that means other than relay switch 44 can be utilized to sense a control signal provid to the solenoid valve in the rinse water spray head. By means o example only, such other means include an opto-isolator/opto- coupler and a solid state relay. It is also contemplated that t control signal could be provided by other means, such as a pressure responsive switch provided in the rinse water spray system. Thus, it is possible for the determining means to be responsive to an electrical signal or to the flow of water.

In the embodiment shown, the control signal provided to switch 44 is 24 volts. If the control signal exceeds 24 volts, step down transformer 54 is provided to reduce the control signa to 24 volts. Preferably, step down transformers 42 and 54 have current rating greater than 35 VA.

As embodied herein, the determining means further includes operation determination timer 46 (also designated by "U5" in Fig. 3) that receives the signal through line 47 from relay swit 44. Operation determination timer 46 is activated upon receipt the signal through line 47 and generates a delayed signal after predetermined time has elapsed. Operation determination timer 4 has an adjustable time range of 0 to 30 seconds. The predetermined time is a period greater than the typical 12 to 15 second rinse cycle. Preferably, the predetermined time is in th range of about 10 seconds to about 20 seconds.

The determining means further includes comparator means for receiving the signal generated by relay switch 44 through line 4 and the delayed signal provided through line 62 from operation determination timer 46. Preferably, a flip-flop circuit 60 (als designated by "U4" in Fig. 3) receives the signal through line 4 and the delayed signal. Flip-flop circuit 60 is a No. 4013 Dual type flip-flop integrated circuit. It is contemplated, however, that other means can be utilized to receive the signal from the relay switch and the delayed signal and perform the function of flip-flop circuit 60.

In accordance with the present invention, the apparatus includes means for dispensing detergent to the washtank of the warewash machine. As embodied herein, a peristaltic pump 48 is provided to supply detergent to washtank 12. With reference to Fig. 1, pump 48 draws detergent from container 36 through input tubing 38 and supplies the detergent through output tubing 39 to washtank 12. Preferably, pump 48 is a variable speed pump capabl of supplying 7 to 10 ounces/minutes at ten to fifteen psi operating at 80 to 90 rpm. It is contemplated that a diaphragm type, piston type, or bellows type pump can also be utilized to dispense detergent to the washtank 12 of warewash machine 10.

In accordance with the present invention, a first control means for operating the dispensing means to dispense a first predetermined amount of detergent is provided. The first control means is activated by the determining means in response to a determination that water is being supplied in a fill cycle. As embodied herein, the first control means 112 includes a pre-charg timer 50 (also designated by "U6" in Fig. 3) for operating peristaltic pump 48 for a first predetermined amount of time to pre-charge washtank 12 with the first predetermined amount of detergent. Flip-flop circuit 60 generates a first control signal through line 64 to pre-charge timer 50 at times when relay switch 44 is providing a signal to flip-flop circuit 60 after the predetermined time has elapsed. The first predetermined amount o detergent is dispensed during or after a fill cycle and typically consist of about 20 milliliters to about 200 milliliters of detergent.

In accordance with the present invention, the apparatus includes second control means for operating the dispensing means to dispense a second predetermined amount of detergent. The second control means is activated by the determining means in response to the determination that water is being supplied in a rinse cycle. As embodied herein, the second control means 114 includes a make-up timer 52 (also designated by "U7" in Fig. 3) operatively connected to peristaltic pump 48 for operating the pump for a second predetermined period of time to add make-up detergent to washtank 12. Flip-flop circuit 60 generates a seco control signal through line 66 to make-up timer 52 at times when relay switch 44 is not providing a signal to flip-flop circuit 6 after the predetermined time has elapsed. Preferably, the secon predetermined amount of detergent is dispensed after the rinse cycle is complete and typically consists of 5 milliliters of detergent.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the mea for dispensing detergent to the washtank includes a means for controlling the speed of the pump when adding detergent after a rinse cycle. The means for controlling the speed of the pump includes a standard DC motor speed control circuit identified generally in Figs. 1A and 2 with reference numeral 70 and shown detail in Fig. 3. Speed control circuit 70 adjusts the speed of pump motor 72 when operated by make-up timer 52. Preferably, pu motor 72 is a 24V DC gear motor.

The present invention can also be applied to a warewash machine utilizing a water source other than the rinse water spra head for the fill operation. In such a machine, separate valves may be provided to control water flow in the rinse water spray head during a rinse cycle and in the alternate water source duri a fill operation. The separate valves could each be provided separate control signals which could activate either the first control means 112 (for a fill cycle) or the second control means 114 (for a rinse cycle).

The present invention contemplates utilizing a single pump, such as pump 48, for dispensing detergent to the washtank during or after a fill cycle and after a rinse cycle. The pump is activated through a first timer to dispense a first predetermine amount of detergent during or after a fill cycle and is activate through a second timer to dispense a second predetermined amount of detergent to compensate for the detergent drained from the washtank during a rinse cycle. Preferably, the second predetermined amount of detergent is substantially less than the first predetermined amount of detergent.

The present invention provides a method of dispensing detergent in a warewash machine that includes a washtank for holding a supply of wash water and a rinse water spray head through which water is supplied in a rinse cycle and in a fill cycle. In accordance with the present invention, the method includes the step of monitoring the condition of the rinse water spray system to sense water being supplied to the warewash machine. Preferably, the step of monitoring the rinse water spra system includes sensing a control signal to a valve positioned in the rinse water spray system.

The method of the present invention also includes the step o determining whether the water is being supplied to the warewash machine in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle. As embodied herein, th step of determining whether the water is being supplied in a rins cycle or a fill cycle includes sensing the control signal to the valve continuously for a predetermined period of time after the control signal was initially sensed by switch 44. Preferably, th predetermined amount of time is about 18 seconds to about 20 seconds.

In addition, the method of the present invention includes th step of dispensing detergent to the washtank of the warewash machine. As embodied herein, the step of controlling the amount of detergent dispensed includes dispensing a first amount of detergent in response to a first electrical signal generated by the determining means and dispensing a second amount of detergent in response to a second electrical signal generated by the determining means. The first electrical signal is generated when it is determined that a rinse cycle is occurring and the second electrical signal is generated when it is determined that a fill cycle is occurring.

During a fill cycle, a supply of water sufficient to fill th washtank is introduced into the washtank, along with a first supply of detergent sufficient to charge the water supplied into the washtank with a desired concentration. Because the desired concentration of detergent, the water volume capacity of the washtank, and the feed rate of the pump are all known prior to installation of the dispensing system, the timer that operates detergent feed pump can be preset by the manufacturer prior to installation. This simplifies the installation process by eliminating the need for pre-charge calibration during installation. Also, the make-up timer can be preset by the manufacturer. Any adjustment to the amount of make-up detergen added after each rinse cycle can be made by adjusting the speed control circuit 70.

During the rinse cycle, a supply of water sufficient to ri wares in the warewash machine is provided. This rinse water drains off the wares in upper cabinet 18 of warewash machine 10 and enters washtank 12. The rinse water supplied in the rinse cycle raises the water level above overflow drain intake 22 and the excess water added during the rinse cycle flows out through overflow drain 26. After each rinse cycle is complete, a second supply of detergent is added to fully charge the water in the washtank to the desired concentration. Because the second suppl of detergent is added after the rinse cycle is complete, the detergent is not lost down the overflow drain before it disperse into the wash water.

The logic flowchart of Fig. 2 and the electrical schematic diagram of Fig. 3 have been included to provide a more detailed understanding of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus and method of the present invention. The flowchart and diagram sho in detail a preferred embodiment and are readily understandable one of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, the discussion regarding these elements and their operation will present an overview.

With reference to Fig. 3, the power supply for the dispensi apparatus is provided through terminals 11 and 12 and applied to diodes D2, D3, D4, and D5 which form a full wave bridge. DS3 is an LED that indicates power being supplied to the apparatus.

The control signal is provided to the solenoid valve at the rinse water spray head or the alternate water source and to terminals 7 and 8 shown in Fig. 3. Resistor R8, diode Dl, and capacitor C5 provide approximately 12 volts DC power to energize the coil of relay switch 44 (also designated as "K3"). LED DS2 indicates when the control signal from the valve is present.

When the 24 volt AC signal is applied to terminals 7 and 8, the coil of relay switch K3 (reference numeral 44) is energized, thereby closing the normally open contacts. Once the contacts close, power is fed to pin 8 of Ul (reference numeral 200). Pins 8 and 10 of Ul debounce the relay closure of K3 and supply a logi 0 signal to terminal 5 of U3 (reference numeral 202). Terminal 4 of U3 then supplies a logic 1 signal to terminal 5 of the flip-flop U4 (reference numeral 60).

At the same time, the signal from relay switch K3 is applied to pin 2 of Ul (reference numeral 204) to initiate operation determination timer U5 (reference numeral 46). LED DS1 indicates when timer U5 is engaged. At the completion of the timing cycle of U5, a logic 1 signal is applied through U3 (reference number 206) and Ul (reference numeral 208) to pin 3 of flip-flop circuit U4. If, at the end of the timing cycle of U5, pin 5 of U4 is at logic 1 (indicating water is still being supplied through the rinse system) then the output of pin 1 of U4 is at logic 1. Conversely, if at the end of the time cycle of U5, pin 5 of U4 is at logic 0 (indicating water is no longer being supplied) then th output of pin 2 of U4 is at logic 1. Thus, the output of pins 1 and 2 of flip-flop U4 depends on whether water is still being supplied to the warewash machine when the operation determination timer U5 ceases operation.

The outputs of pins 1 and 2 of U4 determine whether the pre-charge timer U6 (reference numeral 50) or the make-up timer U (reference numeral 52) operates pump 48. If a logic 1 signal is provided by output pin 1 of U4, then timer U6 controls pump motor 72. The control signal is provided to timer U6 via line 64 through U2 (reference numeral 212), U3 (reference numeral 214) an Ql (reference numeral 216). LED DS4 indicates that timer U6 is i operation.

If output pin 2 of U4 provides a logic 1 output signal, then timer U7 operates pump motor 72. A logic 1 output signal from pi 2 of U4 closes the two sets of contacts of relay switch K2. The first set of contacts K2 provides power to timer U7. The control signal is provided to timer U7 via line 66 through Ul (referenc numeral 218), U3 (reference numeral 220), and Q2 (reference numeral 222).

The second set of contacts 2 operates the pump motor at a adjustable speed. This is accomplished by connecting the negat motor terminal (terminal 1) directly to one side of the incomin power at terminal 12. The other incoming power terminal (termi 11) connects to the anode of diode D6. Diode D6, resistor R23, capacitor C14, diode D9, resistor R30, resistor R33, resistor R diode D8, resistor R34, and resistor R31 generate and control t rate and duration of pulses applied to the gate G of SCR Q3. These components constitute speed control circuit 70. Power fr the input terminal 11 is also applied to the anode of Q3 throug 7.5 OHM 5 watt resistor. When Q3 is gated on, a pulsating DC voltage is supplied to output terminal 2 of the motor. The spe and duration of the pulsating voltage determines the speed of p motor 72. Speed adjustment control R31 located in dispensing apparatus 40 adjusts the pulsating voltage to thereby adjust th speed of pump motor 72 when operated by the make-up timer U7. knob can be adjusted during installation to change the amount o make-up detergent added after each rinse cycle. The speed cont circuit 70 has no effect on pump motor 72 when operated by pre-charge timer U6.

The logic flowchart of Fig. 2 and the detailed electrical schematic diagram of Fig. 3 represent the best mode presently known to the inventor. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be mad in the dispensing apparatus and method of the present invention The invention in its broader aspects is, therefore, not limited the specific details, representative apparatus, and illustrativ examples shown and described above. Thus it is intended that a matter contained in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and in a limiting sense.

In summary, the preferred embodiment of the present invent which is housed in an attractive, rugged, non-metallic enclosur contains the necessary control, chemical feed, and interface circuitry to properly introduce the correct amount of detergent into the warewash machine. A high quality peristaltic pump head, high torque DC motor, and a plug-in solid state electronic contro module assure long life and ease of service. The system is a safe, easy to install, low voltage system. Two continuous duty step down transformers are preferably supplied with the system an are designed for mounting at the control panel of the warewash machine to reduce the high voltage present in the machine to the safe 24 VAC required by the system. The first transformer provides continuous electrical power whenever the warewash machine's master power switch is on. The second transformer provides a signal whenever the water control solenoid valve is being activated.

The system continuously monitors the output of the step-down transformer electrically connected to the warewash machine's wate control circuit. When the solenoid valve is activated in an initial fill cycle, (after a short delay), the chemical feed pump on the system will operate at high speed until the preset amount of detergent has been pumped into the washtank of the warewash machine. When the water control solenoid valve operates in the rinse portion of a wash cycle, (after a short delay) the chemical feed pump on the system operates at low speed until the preset amount of detergent has been pumped into the washtank of the machine. The dispensing apparatus always knows which water introduction operation the warewash machine is in and feeds the correct amount of detergent accordingly. It also waits until the rinse portion of the wash cycle has ended to inject detergent, thereby eliminating detergent waste due to the skimming action of the water in the washtank during that operation. If for some reason, minor variations in detergent feed are deemed necessary, the amount of detergent introduced into the warewash machine during the rinse cycle can be adjusted by adjusting speed control 70 for pump 48.

The operation of the system is fully automatic and incorporates no user controls. Power to the dispenser is supplie by the warewash machine. When the warewash machine is off, the dispenser is off. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to tho skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended tha the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated the following claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine including a washtank for holding a supply of wash water, a rinse water spray head through which water is supplied in a rinse cycle and in a fill cycle, and flow control means for controlling the flow of water being supplied to the warewash machine, the apparatus comprising: means, coupled with the flow control means, for determining whether the water is being supplied in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle; means for dispensing detergent to the washtank of the ware¬ wash machine; first control means for operating the dispensing means to dispense a first predetermined amount of detergent, said first control means activated by the determining means in response to a determination that water is being supplied in a fill cycle; and second control means for operating the dispensing means to dispense a second predetermined amount of detergent, said second control means activated by the determining means in response to a determination that water is being supplied in a rinse cycle.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second control means causes the second predetermined amount of detergent to be dispensed after the rinse cycle is complete.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the determining means includes an operation determination timer which is activated upon receipt of a signal from the flow control means and generates a delayed signal after a predetermined time has elapsed.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said determining means includes a comparator means for receiving the signal generated by the flow control means and the delayed signal generated by the determination timer, the comparator means generating a first control signal to the first control means at times when the flow control means is providing a signal after the predetermined time elapsed and generating a second control signal to the second control means at times when the flow control means is not providing a signal after the predetermined time elapsed.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the predetermined tim is in the range of about 10 to about 20 seconds.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detergent dispen ing means includes a variable speed pump.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the pump is a perist tic pump.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first control me includes a pre-charge timer operatively connected to the dispensing means for operating the dispensing means for a first predetermined period of time to pre-charge the washtank with th first predetermined amount of detergent.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the second control means includes a make-up timer operatively connected to the dis pensing means for operating said dispensing means for a second predetermined period of time to add make-up detergent to the washtank.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the dispensing mean is a variable speed pump and the second control means further includes means for controlling the speed of the pump.

11. An apparatus for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine including a washtank for holding a predetermined supply wash water supplied during a fill cycle, a rinse water spray he for spraying water over a rack of wares and into the washtank during a rinse cycle, and an overflow drain for draining excess water introduced into the washtank during a rinse cycle, the apparatus comprising: means for determining whether the water is being supplied the washtank during a fill cycle or a rinse cycle; means for dispensing detergent to the washtank of the warewash machine; first control means, coupled with the determining means an the dispensing means, for causing the dispensing means to dispe a first predetermined amount of detergent during or after a fil cycle; and second control means, coupled with the determining means a the dispensing means, for causing the dispensing means to dispe after the rinse cycle is complete a second predetermined amount detergent to compensate for the detergent drained from the washtank during a rinse cycle.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the second predetermined amount of detergent is substantially less than the first predetermined amount of detergent.

13. An apparatus for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine including a washtank for holding a supply of wash water and a rinse water spray head through which water is supplied in a rinse cycle and in a fill cycle, the apparatus comprising: a relay switch operatively connected to the rinse water spray head, said relay switch generating a signal in response to water being supplied through the rinse water spray head; an operation determination timer for receiving the signal generated by the relay switch, the signal activating the operation determination timer for a predetermined time, said operation determination timer generating a delayed signal after the predetermined time has elapsed; a control circuit for receiving the delayed signal generated by the operation determination timer and the signal generated by the relay switch; a variable speed pump for dispensing detergent to the washtank of the warewash machine; a pre-charge timer operatively connected to the variable speed pump for operating said pump for a first predetermined period of time, the control circuit generating a first control signal to activate the pre-charge timer at times when the relay switch is generating a signal after the predetermined time elapsed; and a make-up timer operatively connected to the variable speed pump for operating said pump for a second predetermined period of time, the control circuit generating a second control signal to activate the make-up timer at times when the relay switch is not generating a signal after the predetermined time, said second control signal being generated after the rinse cycle is complete.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the variable speed pump is a peristaltic pump.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a speed control circuit for adjusting the speed of the variable speed pu at times when it is operated by the make-up timer.

16. A method of dispensing detergent in a warewash machine including a washtank for holding a supply of wash water and a rinse water spray system through which water is supplied in a rinse cycle and in a fill cycle, the method comprising the steps of: monitoring the condition of the rinse water spray system to sense water being supplied to the warewash machine; determining whether the water is being supplied in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle; dispensing detergent to the washtank of the warewash machine and controlling the amount of detergent dispensed based upon the determination of whether the water is being supplied in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the step of determining whether the water is being supplied in a rinse cycle or a fill cycle includes generating a first electrical signal when a rinse cycle is determined and a second electrical signal when a fill cycle is determined.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the step of controlling the amount of detergent dispensed includes dispensing a first amount of detergent in response to the first electrical signal an dispensing a second amount of detergent in response to the second electrical signal.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the first amount of detergent is dispensed after the rinse cycle is complete.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the second amount of detergent is dispensed during the fill cycle.

21. The method of claim 16, wherein the rinse water spray head includes a valve that is provided a control signal to supply water and the step of monitoring the rinse water spray head includes sensing the control signal provided to the valve.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the step of determining whether the water is being supplied in a rinse cycle or a fill cycle includes sensing the control signal to the valve continuously for a predetermined period of time after the control signal was initially sensed.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the predetermined amoun of time is about 18 seconds to about 20 seconds.

24. The method of claim 18, wherein the detergent is dis¬ pensed by a variable speed peristaltic pump.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising the step of adjusting the speed of the pump at times when it is dispensing th first amount of detergent.

26. A method of dispensing detergent in a warewash machine including a washtank for holding a supply of wash water supplied during a fill cycle, a rinse water spray head through which water is supplied to the washtank during at least the rinse cycle, and an overflow drain for draining excess water introduced into the washtank, the method comprising the steps of: sensing the flow of water into the washtank; determining whether the water is being supplied into the washtank in a fill cycle or a rinse cycle; introducing into the washtank during a fill cycle a supply o water sufficient to fill the washtank; introducing during the fill cycle a first supply of detergen sufficient to charge the water supplied into the washtank during the fill cycle; introducing during the rinse cycle a supply of water sufficient to rinse wares in the warewash machine and draining through the overflow drain the excess water introduced into the washtank; and supplying into the washtank after each rinse cycle is complete a second supply of detergent sufficient to fully charge the water in the washtank.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the second supply of detergent supplied into the washtank is substantially less than the first supply.